Providing Elder Care for a Spouse in Greece, NY: How it Can Strengthen the Bond

Being a caregiver for a spouse may seem overwhelming and stressful at times. Many emotions, such as anger, depression, resentment, and hopelessness, can come into play. Making the choice of how you will spend the time you have left will make the difference. Providing elder care for a spouse can strengthen the bond if you have the right attitude.

Both caregiver and spouse need to focus daily on having a positive outlook. Despite all the things regarding an illness or disease that can bring a person down, concentrate on the things that are good in your life.

Over time, a deeper intimacy will form and replace the closeness you once had before an illness or disease. A new purpose and meaning will envelop your life as a couple as you find happiness in spite of the desperate situations you face.

Just because you are the spouse of a loved one who requires a caregiver, elderly home care doesn’t have to fall solely on you. Avoid caregiver fatigue by knowing your limits and asking for help. Friends and family members are often willing to help if they know your needs. For couples who don’t have family or friends who can help, look into caregiver respite programs.

Join a support group and this will help you realize that you are not alone. Social support is beneficial to acting as a buffer to stress. Talking with others who are enduring the responsibility of assuming the role of spouse and caregiver will offer ways to cope.

It is important to take the time to continue with the things you enjoy both individually and as a couple. Taking care of yourself is the best way to care for your loved one. It is important to eat healthy, exercise, get adequate sleep, and partake in enjoyable activities.

Steps to creating a stronger bond when providing elder care to a spouse are:

Choose to be happy and positive.

Eat right, exercise, and get plenty of rest.

Find individual time for the things you enjoyed before.

Learn what your emotional triggers are.

Remember that the time you spend with your loved one is a gift.

Be open to emotional intimacy with your loved one.

How you approach and react to the curve balls life throws at you will determine your level of happiness. Providing elder care to a spouse will strengthen your bond if you choose to take a positive approach.

If you have a loved one who could benefit from the help of elder care in Greece, NY contact the caregivers at Caring Hearts of Rochester, LLC. We help seniors and their families with many levels of home care service. Call (585) 245-0134 for more information.

Many Senior In-Home Care services and products are not covered by insurance, Medicare, Medicaid or public assistance. Most individuals and families often need to pay "out-of-pocket" for some or all services requested. Are there other sources of financing available to you, such as Social Security benefits, VA benefits, or Private Funds?*